Meriden Library Computerizes Systems

Hanover — Meriden Public Library recently flipped the switch on its new computerized catalog and circulation system. The library is the first of four associate members of Howe Library’s Howe/Evergreen Project to do so. “Everything went smoothly” on Dec. 6, the first day online, Mary King, director of the Meriden Public Library, said in a recent news release.

Evergreen, a library-specific open-source software program, allows users to study, change and improve the software as it is being used. Because the program is created corroboratively, new features and upgrades are free to participating libraries. The program is also a money-saver for the library, King said. “Howe staff donated their time to train us, and our annual maintenance costs are significantly less than the other options available.”

The other participating libraries are Philip Read Memorial Library in Plainfield, Piermont Public Library and Westmoreland (N.H.) Public Library.

Pamela Smith, systems librarian at the Howe Library, said other New Hampshire libraries are welcome to join the Howe/Evergreen Project. “Pooling resources helps all of us and ultimately offers our patrons far more than any individual library can on its own,” she said. For more information, contact Mary White, director of the Howe Library, at 603-640-3251.